The Koseli School works with children from the poorest realms of society in Kathmandu. Children from the slum areas and street children who live outside of mainstream society. Their biggest need is survival. Koseli mean ‘gift’ and the centre offers them the gift of a happy childhood and education.
There are still many taboos related to menstruation in Nepal which has direct impact on the education of girls once their menstrual cycle has begun. Approximately 30% of the girls during their period miss school each month. Lack of facilities, education on hygiene and materials contribute to prevent girls from going to school during this time. Only 28% of public schools in Nepal have separate facilities with toilets for girls. Moreover, research shows that 83% of menstruating girls use a piece of cloth with15% using a sanitary towel.
Shenpen, our main partner on the ground in Nepal has organised workshops in several schools over the last year, targeted at girls about to start, or have started their menstrual cycle.
The direct objectives of this project are to:
- Educate students to Menstrual Hygiene and related topics
- Provide female students with a basic Dignity Kit
- Promote a positive message regarding menstruation
During August Shenpen, in coordination with Days for Girls, successfully conducted a Menstrual Health Awareness Program for girls at Koseli School, and distributed dignity kits of eco-friendly menstrual pads to 15 girls. This training was funded by CHANCE for NEPAL.
Shenpen reported the girls seemed very curious and had lots of questions which were answered by the trainers.
The main aim of the program is to improve the awareness and knowledge to teenage girls on menstruation health and to break down taboos in this field and bring about social change in attitudes.
Koseli School said the programme was effective and gave positive feedback. The dignity kits handed out to each participant are designed in such a way that the pads are reusable.
